Nicholas Clisby-Sabathia Share 5 Mistakes to Avoid in Business Sales

Nicholas Clisby-Sabathia is a seasoned entrepreneur and an Army veteran with hands-on experience in leading business sales. Nicholas Clisby-Sabathia has successfully led ventures across industries like hospitality, staffing, and e-commerce, demonstrating his adaptability and strategic insight. Skilled in sales, acquisitions, and team building, He combines sharp business acumen with disciplined leadership shaped by his military service. His work in diverse markets, including South America, highlights his ability to navigate cultural and economic complexities. Nicholas Clisby-Sabathia has shared five common mistakes that can cost you time, money, and opportunity.

1. Overpricing the Business

Many owners assume their business is worth more than it is. You might think about the years you’ve put in or what the business could earn, but buyers look at actual performance. If your price is too high, serious buyers walk away. The right price reflects profits, growth potential, and market conditions.

2. Poor Financial Records

If your books are messy or incomplete, you lose trust fast. Buyers want clean, verifiable numbers. Make sure your financials are accurate, up to date, and easy to review. That means separating personal and business expenses, documenting revenue streams, and having consistent records for at least the past three years.

3. Selling Without a Plan

Some owners decide to sell without a clear reason or future plan. This might cause buyers to be hesitant. If you can’t explain why you’re selling or what the transition will look like, you risk creating doubt. Be clear on your goals, timing, and what you’re offering beyond the product such as trained staff, systems, or brand equity.

4. Hiding Weaknesses

Every business has weaknesses. Trying to cover them up only makes things worse. Smart buyers do their homework. If they find surprises late in the process, the deal may fall apart or you may face a lower offer. Be upfront about challenges like debt, employee turnover, operational gaps and show how you’ve worked to fix them.

5. Choosing the Wrong Buyer

Not every offer is a good one. A buyer with the highest bid might not be the best one. Look at how they plan to run the business, whether they can finance the deal, and if they’ll treat your team well. A deal should be good for you and the people who helped build the business.

Conclusion

Selling in a business is a big step. Avoiding these mistakes can save you time, keep your value intact, and give you more control over the outcome. Nicholas Clisby-Sabathia knows the process well and his advice is simple: plan ahead, be honest, and treat the sale like the business itself with clarity and purpose.